About the reviewer I use the balackwater for safety patrol on the upper delaware. Test environment easy class 2 lots of eddy hoppin and front surfing Review Tips up on edge for quicker turns and glides back upstream for fast attainment, I use it for tripping and as safety support. Had to improvise Liquid logic thoughpads for better control, wish they made agressive out fitting. Check skeg hardware for potential leaks and fill with silicon. HAndless crosswinds and you could use skeg for flat sections. Conclusion great cross over for easy class 2 and flat but slows down on broader flat sections.